Students in this course develop their science communication skills while training for and touring with the Shell Questacon Science Circus. The course includes experience in the development of science presentations and workshops, the presentation of science shows to audiences of all ages (with an emphasis on school-age audiences), the presentation of teacher development workshops, explaining science and exhibits to members of the public, promotion of a science outreach program, the operation of a travelling science exhibition, and the coordination of activities while on tour.

SCOM8004A is taught in semester 1. It is continued as SCOM8004B in semester 2.

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have knowledge, skills and experience in:

1. Explaining science and technology concepts to audiences of varied ages and backgrounds, including school students, teachers, general public, remote communities and Indigenous audiences
2. The design and delivery of science shows, resource materials and workshops on a range of science and technology topics at a level appropriate to a wide range of audiences including Indigenous audiences
3. The skills and attributes necessary to the efficient and effective functioning of a team, as well as an understanding of group dynamics and some experience in small team management
4. The operation of an outreach education program (including a travelling science exhibition)
5. Implementation of a media campaign to promote a travelling science outreach program

Assessment will comprise:

Shell Questacon Science Circus touring. Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3 and 4(12.5%)
Development of science presentations. Learning Outcomes 1 and 2 (5%)
Explaining science exhibits. Learning Outcome 1 (4%)
Teacher professional development workshops. Learning Outcomes 1 and 2 (4%)
Promotion of tour. Learning Outcome 5 (5%)
Cross-cultural communication. Learning Outcomes 1, 2 and 4 (7%)
Work experience placement. Learning Outcome 1 (Course requirement satisfied)

Contact: 125 hours, Non contact: 100 Hours

Must be enroled in Graduate Diploma in Science Communication

Must be enrolled in Graduate Diploma in Science Communication program.

Solid understanding of all disciplines of science at a basic undergraduate level.

None